Meet The Founder and Designer

Meet The Founder and Designer

Hi, and welcome to MINIMO!

My name is Rainy Leonor-Lake and I’m the founder and designer behind MINIMO. The name MINIMO comes from one of the most transformative times in my life. In Spanish, "minimo" can mean many things depending on the context—it can translate to minimal or minimalist  . However, MINIMO as a brand is not purely minimalist in design. The name holds a much deeper meaning for me, rooted in my personal journey.

At 25, I became a mother and moved with my husband to Pittsburgh. After having my baby, I fell into a deep postpartum depression, compounded by the isolation of the COVID-19 lockdown. I felt like I was losing myself, both physically and mentally, as I adjusted to my new role as a mother. It was a challenging time, but therapy helped me through it. I remember my therapist giving me advice that resonated deeply: "haz lo minimo," which means "do the minimum." It was a powerful reminder to take small steps, to focus on what was truly essential, and to give myself grace during that difficult period. That phrase became the foundation of MINIMO.

What started as a personal mantra evolved into a brand that reflects my love for timeless, handcrafted jewelry. Five years ago, I launched MINIMO with a vision to create unique pieces that blend modern elegance with artisanal craftsmanship. As a self-taught designer, every collection I create is a personal journey—one rooted in the belief that jewelry should not only elevate your style but also tell your story.

At MINIMO, we pride ourselves on producing small-batch, sustainably-made jewelry that speaks to those who value quality, ethics, and individuality. We use recycled materials and work with small, ethical manufacturers to ensure that every piece is made with integrity and care.

Thank you for joining me on this journey, and for supporting independent design. I can’t wait to adorn your world with timeless pieces that you’ll treasure for years to come.

xx Rainy

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